FOLK icon and award-winning singer Kate Rusby is returning to Warrington as part of her popular Christmas tour.

With a career spanning more than 25 years, ‘the Barnsley Nightingale’ is considered one of the finest interpreters of traditional folk songs.

The 44-year-old will be performing at the Parr Hall with a festive twist on December 7.

For Kate, the Christmas tour is an extension of a south Yorkshire tradition which sees families flock to their pubs from late November to New Year’s Day to sing and be merry.

She said: “These songs were thrown out of the churches by the Victorians, but the people who loved singing them took them to the pubs instead

“They have been passed on down the generations and still thrive there. It’s not a folkie thing or a religious thing, just people from all walks of life, young and old, gathering on a weekend to catch up and sing at the top of their voices.”

Holly Jones, from Parr Hall, added: “A Mercury Prize nominee, Folk Singer of the Year, Best Live Act, Best Album and Best Original Song winner at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, this is one performer you simply must see.

“Kate Rusby’s beautiful, expressive vocals never fail to connect the emotional heart of a song to that of her audience.

“Famously down to earth, Kate’s engaging personality and sharp Yorkshire wit have further endeared her to concert goers everywhere.

“And it is in her special Christmas concerts that all these elements combine to exquisite effect.”

  • For tickets visit pyramidparrhall.com or call 442345